# Describe the trends in reactivity and the nature of the oxides as you descend Group 2 of the periodic table. Explain why reactivity changes down the group.

> AQA A-Level Chemistry (7405) — 3.2.2 Group 2, the alkaline earth metals · Describe · 5 marks

> Group 2 elements are known as the alkaline earth metals. They include beryllium, magnesium, calcium, strontium and barium.

## Mark scheme (5 marks)

1. Reactivity increases down Group 2
2. Atoms get larger / atomic radius increases down the group, so outer electrons are further from the nucleus
3. Increased shielding / shielding effect increases down the group
4. Outer electrons are lost more easily / ionisation energy decreases down the group
5. Group 2 oxides are basic / dissolve in water to form alkaline solutions

## Key terms

- [reactivity](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/reactivity)

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Source: [GradeNine](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/q/describe-the-trends-in-reactivity-and-1ea02e11) · Published by Druglandscape Ltd.